Undefeated, but not perfect. The Buckeyes are ineligible for the postseason due to the transgressions of former coach Jim Tressel. Still, Tressel’s missteps in the Tattoogate scandal and his forced resignation haven’t tarnished his name in the Horseshoe.

The 2002 national championship team was honored before the game and Tressel, who now works as an administrator at Akron, was widely applauded along with the team. The players lifted the coach up on their shoulders, the ultimate sign of respect and admiration for the beloved and fallen coach.